Question 1

I've never been to therapy before. I'm nervous and not sure what to expect!

Accepted Answer

It's really common to feel nervous! You are far from alone in these feelings. The fact that you're here is already such a big step, so please go gently with yourself.

This is why I offer a 'Baby Step' Session to all new clients - because seeking support starts with one gentle step in the right direction.

The 'Baby Step' Session combines my intake process (i.e. ensuring The Birth Of Us is the best support service for your current needs), supporting you in the here and now, while also providing a space where you can get a feel for what I’m like as a psychologist and a sense of how therapy works. By the end of the session, we will have a plan for your next baby step. This may be booking ongoing sessions with myself, or you may decide on a different direction: that is okay too. If I simply provide a positive experience of a psychologist and a safe space - that is amazing!

This is a shorter, lower upfront cost, lower life-admin (i.e. no having to book in with the GP, get a referral or Mental Health Care Plan right away), because I want to see if it helps make therapy just a little bit more accessible and less daunting.

If you're ready or would like to find out more, you can book here.

Question 2

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

The Birth Of Us offers appointments via Telehealth or in-person at Gerringong on Wednesdays only with Clinical Psychologist & Founder, Annaleise Mitchell.

Please click here to contact us or book now.

Question 3

What is your referral criteria?

Accepted Answer

A quick checklist. You are:
18+ years old
Living in Australia
In the perinatal period: pregnant, postpartum or experiencing fertility, pregnancy or infancy loss, or family planning concerns
Available for appointments on Wednesdays only
Accept of our session & cancellation fees

Common presentations we support:
Antenatal and postnatal depression/anxiety
Birth trauma
Fertility support, pregnancy and infancy loss
Relationship difficulties (partner or extended family dynamics)
Family planning support
Matrescence: we support you on your journey of 'becoming' a mother
Fathers: our service is not limited to mothers!

If your primary concern is: eating disorder or disordered eating, drug & alcohol use, domestic and family violence or abuse, navigating legal matters, another service would be best suited to you.

This is just a snippet of what we work with. If you are unsure if we'd make a good fit or are a health professional wishing to refer, please contact us here.

Question 4

It's been years since I had my youngest child, can I still see you?

Accepted Answer

Yes of course! Postpartum is forever in a way isn't it? We ebb and flow through the different rites of passage and seasons of parenthood: starting school, closing the chapter on having more children, wondering if you're "done" or not, navigating tweens and teenagers. If you're unsure if we'll make the best fit for you, please feel free to send an email to thebirthofuspsychology@gmail.com.

Question 5

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

'Baby Step' Session (30-minutes): $130*All new clients start here - because support begins with one gentle baby step. Shorter duration. Lower upfront cost. Lower life-admin. You're carrying enough of the mental load - accessing support should ease it - not add to it. This session combines our intake process i.e. ensuring that we are the best service to support you during this time, and gives you a sense of what therapy is like and who I am as a psychologist. Together, we will decide your next step.*No Medicare rebate available.If we are the best fit for you and you'd like to continue sessions:Standard Session (50-minutes): $260**If you have an eligible Mental Health Care Plan, you will receive a Medicare rebate of $149.05 per session for up to 10 sessions per calendar year (i.e. $110.95 out of pocket).

Question 6

What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life happens, especially during this season of life, so being compassionate and flexible is important to us. We've found that having a clear, kind and firm cancellation policy allows us to achieve this.We ask that you please provide a minimum of 24-hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. If the appointment is cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24-hours or you do not show to an appointment, the full session fee will be charged. This fee will be automatically charged to your stored payment information and is not eligible for a medicare rebate nor will it count as one of your Mental Health Care Plan sessions. You will be sent automatic appointment reminders via text and email 72-hours (3-days) prior to your appointment. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please reply to your appointment reminder, change your appointment online or email: thebirthofuspsychology@gmail.com

Question 7

Can my partner or baby attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes! As a perinatal psychologist, I’m always holding the whole family in mind. So even better if I get to speak and see the family directly! It is part of my standard practice to invite partners in for at least one session, if it is in line with your needs.

Babies and young children are always welcome. I’ve seen and experienced it all! The sessions may not feel as productive on your end, but they are productive and insightful in a different way.

On the other hand, I of course understand if this is not what you are after. Therapy is your safe sacred space, and if you want to keep it that way and make it your alone time, I will follow your lead.

FAQs